Experience the Outer Banks like never before on a 1-hour airboat tour from Manteo, NC. Glide across Wanchese Harbor and Cape Hatteras, spotting wildlife and discovering local history on this high-speed eco-adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; able to sit upright and handle a bumpy ride for the duration.
Wildlife
History
The Outer Banks have a rich maritime history, including the infamous shipwrecks along the Graveyard of the Atlantic and early Native American settlements.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving fragile salt marshes and protecting endangered wildlife while promoting responsible eco-tourism in the region.
Outer Banks Adventures
Experience the Outer Banks like never before on a 1-hour airboat tour from Manteo, NC. Glide across Wanchese Harbor and Cape Hatteras, spotting wildlife and discovering local history on this high-speed eco-adventure.
Outer Banks Adventures is an outdoor recreation provider based in Manteo, North Carolina, offering watercraft rentals, guided tours, and private event transportation on the Outer Banks. The business operates kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals on Roanoke Sound, guided 2-hour SUP tours with lessons, Sea Doo jet ski rentals and guided jet ski tours, a 1.5-hour airboat eco-tour, and family fishing trips in partnership with Rock On Fishing Charters led by Captain Marc Kerns.
Private event options include two custom-renovated buses: the Beachin' Bus, adorned by local artist Chris Wheeler and available for catered events, and the Magic Bus, equipped with a flat-screen TV, custom sound system, and seating for up to 20 guests. Rentals and guided experiences highlight local landmarks such as Bodie Island Lighthouse and Jockey's Ridge, provide wildlife viewing opportunities, and emphasize scenic exploration of Roanoke and Pamlico Sounds.
Safety briefings and beginner lessons are provided for activities like stand-up paddle boarding and jet skiing, and guides lead airboat eco-tours with narrated stops at a private island and lighthouse photography points. Fishing trips with Rock On Charters accommodate families, offer a relaxed on-water experience, and include chances to search for hermit crabs and observe coastal wildlife.
Outer Banks Adventures focuses on creating memorable, accessible outdoor experiences in the Manteo area, serving visitors who seek rentals, guided nature tours, and unique mobile venues for private events. Booking is available for single rentals, guided outings, and private-event reservations; scheduling depends on seasonal availability and trip selection.
Advanced notice is recommended for large groups.
Tours Offered
10
Watercraft, guided tours, private events
Location
Manteo, NC
Located on the Outer Banks
Event Capacity
Up to 20
Magic Bus seats 20 guests
Tour Lengths
30 min–2 hr
Flexible rental and guided durations
Reserve kayaks, SUP tours, jet skis, airboat eco-tours, fishing charters, or private bus rentals in Manteo — check availability and book early for peak season.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
Binoculars help you catch glimpses of birds and distant wild horses during the tour.
Wear sun protection
The open airboat deck offers little shade, so don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.
Secure your camera gear
Use straps or waterproof cases to protect your camera from spray and sudden movements.
Listen to the safety briefing
Pay close attention to instructions for a safe and enjoyable ride.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare off the water during sunny summer days.
summer
Light jacket
Spring can be breezy and cool out on the water, so pack a windbreaker.
spring
Waterproof phone case
Keep your electronics safe from splashes during the airboat ride.
summer
Binoculars
Enhance your ability to spot distant wildlife and landmarks easily.